Aheed Abrar
Martin Dubravka relishing his chance to play for Manchester United
Manchester United signed Martin Dubravka from Newcastle United on transfer deadline day. The Slovak goalkeeper is looking forward to starting a new chapter with the Red Devils.
Dubravka made his way to the Premier League in the 2017/18 season. The Slovakia international quickly made his way into the Toons’ XI. Up until the new campaign, the 33-year-old was a regular for the Magpies.
Now, Dubravka has moved to one of the most successful clubs in the world. And speaking to United’s official website (h/t Manchester Evening News), the Slovak called it a “special moment”. The 33-year-old is raring to get started in a red shirt.
“To be joining Manchester United is a special moment in my career and I can’t wait to get started, and help the group achieve its ambitions.”
United sent Dean Henderson on loan to Nottingham Forest early in the summer. The 25-year-old served as the backup for David de Gea last season.
Erik ten Hag was left with just the Spaniard and Tom Heaton as the senior goalkeeping options in the squad. Thus, the addition of another shot-stopper was evidently important.
Dubravka knows he is coming into a side with an already established star in between the sticks. However, the Slovak is ready to push his competition and is looking forward to the challenge.
“I am joining an excellent group of goalkeepers with lots of experience in the Premier League, and I know that we will push and support each other to keep our standards at the highest levels. The chance to work with David De Gea, alongside Tom Heaton, is one that I am relishing.”
De Gea had a bad start to the season in goal for Ten Hag’s side. The Spaniard has been made to change his game up a bit under the Dutch manager.
Ten Hag expects his goalkeepers to be good with their feet. However, that is not De Gea’s strongest suit. The 31-year-old is not comfortable with the ball at his feet. The Spaniard’s distribution leaves a lot to be desired.
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However, over the last few fixtures, De Gea has shown why he is one of the best goalkeepers around. The 31-year-old’s shot-stopping abilities are on par with the best. It remains to be seen whether Dubravka is able to take the Spaniard’s mantle at United.
